A recent survey conducted by Chartered Accountants Ireland Leinster Society CAILS), in partnership with Barden, has highlighted a notable rise in the earnings of chartered accountants in the Leinster region.

The CAILS Salary Survey 2025 indicates that the average salary package for these professionals has reached €131,654 ($153,458), reflecting a 6.6% increase from the previous year’s average of €123,466.

This figure represents a 20% rise since 2020, when the average salary was recorded at €109,989.

The survey reveals that the average salary package of €131,654 includes base salary, car or car allowance, and bonuses for chartered accountants across various sectors.

Chartered accountants with five years of post-qualification experience now earn an average package of €97,527, which is more than 8% higher than in 2024.

Newly qualified accountants have seen their average pay increase to €72,450 from €68,121 last year, marking a rise of 6%.

Those newly qualified in industry reported an average salary package of €82,279, nearly 16% higher than the previous year.

According to the survey, the respondent satisfaction is high, with 65% expressing contentment with their salaries.

Additionally, 88% reported an increase in total remuneration over the past three years, with 27% noting increases of more than 25%.

Looking ahead, 77% expect their total remuneration to rise within the next year.

The integration of AI into the profession is also significant, with 28% of chartered accountants using AI tools in their daily tasks, a marked increase from 14% in 2024.

More than half of the respondents, specifically 57%, view AI as a considerable opportunity for the profession, while two-thirds believe it will positively impact their careers.

The survey further explores the implications of technological advancements, with 69% of respondents feeling that automation will positively affect their careers, and 66% expressing similar sentiments regarding online collaboration tools.

In the past three years, 44% of respondents reported receiving promotions, and nearly 80% highlighted remote work options as a key benefit provided by their employers.

In terms of non-monetary rewards, the survey indicates that employers are promoting a healthy work-life balance.

Options for hybrid working, parental and carers’ leave, and employee assistance programmes are commonly available across sectors.

Satisfaction with non-monetary aspects of employment stands at 64%, while 72% are pleased with their work environment and 67% with their work-life balance.

Pension benefits are also significant, with 89% of members having a pension plan, and 95% of these receiving contributions from their employers.

Following basic salary, pension contributions are the most valued aspect of the salary package for 54% of respondents, alongside other benefits such as professional subscriptions, health insurance, and sponsored professional development.

CAILS chairperson Sarah Murphy said:  “Salary increases across the sector are evidence of the value that employers place on the work of chartered accountants in businesses, practices and more.

“Looking to the future, the potential for progression is also strong, with 44% of respondents having received a promotion in the last three years.  

“As the role of accountants continues to evolve, to see a year-on-year doubling of the numbers using AI in their day-to-day work points to a profession that is highly adaptable and open to the opportunities that technology presents.

“Chartered Accountants hold positions of significant trust in organisations, and their ethical standards, critical thinking and analytical capabilities will be in even greater demand as business leaders as AI becomes more established. These results are a strong endorsement of Chartered Accountancy as a sustainable and fulfilling career, full of opportunity.”